Whispering Woods: The Ultimate White Mountain Glade Ski Experience
Are you ready to elevate your backcountry skiing or splitboarding adventures by diving into the enchanting world of glade skiing in the White Mountains? Look no further! This course is tailored for skiers and splitboarders eager to explore the beauty of tree-lined backcountry terrain.
Who Should Attend
If you've already dabbled in backcountry skiing on trails and possibly ventured into higher terrain on Mount Washington, this course is your ideal next step. Our goal is to expand your skills and confidence in backcountry skiing through the magic of glade skiing.
Course Highlights
Orientation and Gear Check: Your day commences with an orientation and thorough gear check. We'll ensure you're well-prepared for the adventure ahead. If needed, we'll review the fundamentals of backcountry skiing and riding.
Safety First: Before embarking on our glade skiing journey, we'll prioritize safety by reviewing the latest updates from the Mount Washington Avalanche Center avalanche advisory and the Mount Washington Observatory forecast. Safety is paramount.
Skill Development: Throughout the day, our experienced guides will delve into crucial topics, including:
Safe route finding through the forested terrain
Identifying potential avalanche terrain and other objective hazards
Assessing snow stability for confident descents
Enhancing your skinning and downhill technique
Tips for staying cozy and comfortable in the winter mountain environment
Varied Locations: The course location will be selected based on weather, snow, avalanche conditions, group skill level, and guide judgment. Potential destinations include picturesque backcountry ski trails and glades like the Doublehead Ski Trail, Maple Villa Glade, Crescent Ridge Glade, and Baldface. In certain conditions, we may explore iconic routes like Sherburne Trail and areas of Tuckerman Ravine or the Gulf of Slides Trail on Mt. Washington. Local resort skiing could also be an option.
This course promises an enriching experience in glade skiing, allowing you to master the intricacies of backcountry terrain while surrounded by the serene beauty of the White Mountains.
Ability Level
Participants looking to take this course should have extensive resort experience (feeling comfortable skiing variable conditions on "black diamonds" in the Northeast) as well as previous backcountry experience. You should be able to make controlled turns on narrow backcountry trails and glades. You should feel comfortable being outside in the mountains for 6-8 hours with enough physical ability to travel uphill with a pack for 3+ miles (with enough energy leftover for downhill travel).
Avalanche Safety Equipment
This course may travel in or approach avalanche terrain and avalanche safety equipment (transceiver, probe, shovel) is required for participation.
Prerequisites
Comfortable skiing/riding black diamonds in varying conditions at the resort. Some backcountry skiing experience.